Should Natural Stone Be Sealed?
Should Natural Stone Be Sealed?
Natural stone is a timeless and versatile material that can be displayed as custom handcrafted pieces in various places throughout an individual’s home. Many choose to invest in natural stone because of its grandeur appearance, durability, availability in different colors and patterns, and environmental friendliness. From countertops to floors, fireplaces and fountains, natural stone is elegant and made to withstand the test of time. To ensure your natural stone remains beautiful and able to serve its purpose, it is important that it is sealed properly. Learn more about why it is important to seal your stone with the professionals at Impression.
Yes, Natural Stone Should Be Sealed
Due to the characteristics of natural stone, it should indeed be sealed! Natural stone is porous, which means that it is able to absorb liquid, bacteria, and stains. Without a sealant, stone features can become damaged. It is important to note that some stone materials are more porous than others, requiring them to be sealed more often. Limestone and marble are two natural stone materials that should be sealed to ensure quality is preserved. Learn more about them below.
Limestone
Limestone is a great material for kitchen countertops, flooring, and much more. To maintain its visually pleasing appearance, it will need to be sealed. How often it needs to be sealed depends on what type of limestone needs protecting. Some can last years while others need to be done sooner. Penetrating limestone sealants are those designed to help the stone resist dirt, water, and oil. If you are unsure if it is time to reseal your limestone, performing a water test can give you the answer. This consists of applying a small amount of water to the surface of your limestone and waiting about 10 minutes. Once the time is up, if you notice that the water has seeped into the stone, that is a sign that it must be sealed again.
Marble
Another commonly used material is mable. Marble features give homes a class look and is often used for fireplaces, kitchen hoods, door surrounds, and fountains. Similar to limestone, the type of marble feature determines how often it needs to be sealed. For example, marble countertops should be sealed every 3 to 6 months while it is suggested to seal marble tile flooring every year. A food-safe sealant should be used on kitchen surfaces and an impregnating sealer is best for tile. It is important to be aware that sealants don’t prevent the presence of stains, however they can offer more time to clean them.
Make a Statement with Natural Stone From Impression
For one of a kind designs and the beauty of premier European craftsmanship, look no further than Impression! We proudly carry a wide variety of stone materials to fit your preferences and needs, including limestone, marable, and reclaimed terracotta. Our artisans pay great attention to detail and quality to ensure our customers are left with distinguished pieces that create a lasting impression. To learn more about our custom home features, the right sealants to use, and how you can incorporate natural stone into your home’s aesthetic, contact us today!
